Sweet strawberry season

I never really tasted a strawberry until I spent a summer visiting my grandmother on her family’s tiny island off the southeastern coast of Norway. Sure, I had eaten strawberries before. They usually came from a plastic container, picked out of season, underripe and shipped from some distant location. But after tasting the sweet real thing, I could hardly consider those strawberries anymore. Now, whenever berries are in season, I buy cartons of them (or pick them myself). I love to eat them fresh, but I also have a few great strawberry recipes that I go back to again and again.

Strawberry-Orange Muffins: We love the combination of strawberry and orange in this sweet breakfast muffin with a streusel topping. For a less conventional (but equally delicious) twist, try the basil variation. The hint of basil complements the fruity berries wonderfully.

Strawberry Cream: This chilled strawberry dessert gets creaminess and a touch of tanginess from reduced-fat sour cream. Topped with some ruby-red diced strawberries, it makes a delightful ending to any meal.